Chair Report
CEO Report
Work Placement
VET Awards
Skilled Creative
Girls of Steel
Connecting Cultural Pathways
E-Cruiser Program
Metal Maker and Metals Unlocked
Youth Sound, Style, Mind
Unlocked
Financials
Acknowledgement of Country
The Skill Engineer Ltd. is located on the unceded lands of the Darkinjung, Yawuru, Dharug and Pangerang people. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and to the young people who are our collective future.
We extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities across the lands that we meet and work. We recognise and respect their continuing connection to lands, waterways and community, and we deeply value their histories, cultures and knowledge.
We acknowledge the continued resistance and enduring determination of First Nations peoples in dismantling outdated colonial systems. We are grateful and proud to work alongside these communities in our programs as an ally organisation.
This video was produced by Skilled Creative for the Department of Education’s Ready Arrive Work program.
What we do
The Skill Engineer Ltd (TSE) is a charity working to advance employment, education, and training opportunities for marginalised young people. It facilitates activities promoting economic, social, and civic inclusion for “at risk” young people, First Nations youth, CALD youth and young people with disabilities. Operating from social enterprise campuses in Victoria, NSW and WA, TSE links 5,200 young people annually to industry work placement opportunities. TSE provides vocational tasters; offers training and employment pathways for girls in non-traditional trades; facilitates self-esteem and resilience workshops to students with disabilities; delivers work readiness training in schools to support a student’s school to work transition; conducts cultural camps combined with alternative education and vocational pathway planning; provides cultural immersion experiences for First Nations youth disconnected from family and culture; is an NDIS provider for school to work transition; and gives local young people a community voice by offering multimedia and podcasting training and experiences.
Our people
At TSE, we’re driven by a passionate team and a dynamic, youthful Board with expertise spanning business, education, marketing, governance, health and community development. We’re committed to creating an inclusive, discrimination-free workplace that celebrates diversity and values the contributions of First Nations people, individuals from diverse backgrounds, and marginalised communities. Our mission is to open doors to meaningful futures for young people, offering employment opportunities and pathways to further training. None of this would be possible without our incredible team, dedicated Board, supportive partners, and the inspiring young people we have the privilege to work alongside and learn from every day.
Our values
Choose to be bold
We take risks and push boundaries and drive innovation.
Have transparency
We prioritise open, honest communication to build trust and accountability.
Be a no-ego doer
Ego aside, we value teamwork and each person’s contributions.
Listen first, then listen more
We start by listening, truly understanding perspectives, and valuing diverse viewpoints before we act or make decisions.
Communicate with clarity
Clear and precise communication for team and stakeholder alignment.
Show gratitude
We express appreciation and acknowledge the efforts and contributions of our colleagues and partners.
Do what’s right, not what’s easy
We prioritise what’s right over what’s easy.
Celebrate culture
We honour and celebrate diverse cultures, celebrating their richness.
Diversity and inclusion
We value diversity as a strength, actively promoting an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Chair Report
Matt Grant
READ HERE
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to present The Skill Engineer Ltd.’s (TSE) Annual Report for 2024. This year has marked significant milestones in our organisation’s journey, most notably our achievement of NDIS certification, which opens new horizons for expanding our impact in the disability services sector. This strategic advancement positions us to better serve young people with diverse abilities, aligning perfectly with our mission of inclusive support and development. The Board acknowledges it will create valuable opportunities to expand our service offerings and enhance our impact in the community.
The Board commends the execution of our youth-focused initiatives throughout 2024. Notable achievements include:
- The successful relaunch of Girls of Steel under Workforce Australia Local Jobs, demonstrating our commitment to gender diversity in traditionally male-dominated fields
- The implementation of Metal Maker through the Maker Projects – Community STEM Engagement grant, showcasing our ability to secure and effectively utilse government funding
- The delivery of Beat Masters and SoundSoul programs, engaging thousands of youth in creative industries on the Central Coast
- The continued success of our Connecting Cultural Pathways program, which has made significant strides in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth
- Our partnerships and program delivery in Broome, which saw 60 young people engaged in vocational training and many job outcomes for youth in the West Kimberley.
Looking Forward
As we move into 2025, the Board’s priorities include:
- Supporting the full implementation of our NDIS services and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements
- Expanding our reach while maintaining the high quality of our existing programs
- Strengthening our governance frameworks to support sustainable growth
- Continuing to build strategic partnerships that enhance our capacity to serve young people
On behalf of the Board, I extend our gratitude to our CEO, executive team, and staff for their dedication and achievements throughout 2024. Their commitment to our mission has been instrumental in our success. We also thank our partners, stakeholders, and the young people we serve for their continued trust and collaboration.
The Board remains confident in TSE’s direction and its capacity to create positive change in the lives of young people across Australia.
Matt Grant
Chairperson
The Skill Engineer Ltd.
CEO Report
Maggie MacFie
READ HERE
As CEO of The Skill Engineer Ltd. (TSE), I am proud to share our bold initiatives driving change and empowering youth – including First Nations, CALD, diverse abilities, and women—across our regions. TSE is committed to advancing employment, education, and training opportunities, fostering inclusion and creating futures full of promise.
Over the past year, we have impacted the lives of thousands of young people, launching influential programs and strengthening our organisational reach. Key initiatives, such as the reintroduction of Girls of Steel under Workforce Australia Local Jobs and Metal Maker supported by the Maker Projects – Community STEM Engagement grant, have demonstrated the power of collaboration. These programs involved shared program management across various stakeholders, introducing us to new partnerships that have elevated our capacity to deliver impactful outcomes.
We also successfully delivered Beat Masters and SoundSoul, which engaged thousands of youth in media, event production, music, and songwriting. These initiatives not only showcased remarkable talent but also encouraged collaboration with diverse and influential partners, expanding our network and engaging youth from marginalised areas.
Our work placement team deserves special recognition for facilitating thousands of placements across the Central Coast and Sydney. Their ability to build unprecedented rapport with schools and employers reflects their strategic and partnership-building skills. By actively engaging with stakeholders, sharing success stories, and nurturing relationships, they have set a new standard for impactful collaboration.
The Connecting Cultural Pathways program has been another standout, quietly transforming the lives of First Nations youth across Central Coast high schools. By addressing barriers to educational engagement and fostering cultural pride, this program has empowered students to navigate high school while strengthening their identity and connection to culture. The program has received glowing feedback from schools, with its impact on attendance and participation widely acknowledged.
Our Skilled Creative team has also enhanced service delivery by building strategic partnerships with Central Coast Council, Mosaic, The Y, and other vital youth services. These collaborations have led to successful music events, increased demand for the Digi Van, and projects that deepen our impact on the broader community. On the Central Coast, recognition from the Department of Education and the success of our VET Awards further highlight the strength of our regional partnerships.
In Broome, TSE has built a foundation of trust and respect within the community. Programs like our e-scooter initiative have been particularly celebrated, with former participants regularly returning for mentorship, support, and technical assistance. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating safe, impactful spaces where youth feel valued and supported.
Reflecting on the year, we’ve faced moments of challenge and adaptation, pivoting when necessary to remain aligned with our mission. Building and nurturing strategic partnerships has been essential to our growth, enabling us to share responsibilities and extend our reach. My work with the Youth Futures Network has further strengthened collaboration with fellow providers, fostering innovation and shared success.
Looking ahead, our recent NDIS registration represents an exciting opportunity to expand our services. While meeting compliance requirements is a big task, it is a journey I look forward to leading, confident in the impact it will bring to those we support.
Our young people are at the heart of everything we do, guiding us with their advice and insights. Every program we deliver encourages their participation, empowering them to co-create initiatives – a key factor in our success and one we will continue to nurture as we move forward.
As we continue to grow and innovate, I remain deeply grateful to our board, team, partners, and stakeholders whose dedication and vision have made these achievements possible. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all young people.
Work Placement
READ HERE
In 2024, TSE continued to excel in its mission of connecting young people with valuable industry experience through our cornerstone Structured Workplace Learning program. As the region’s trusted work placement coordinator, we facilitated opportunities for more than 4,000 students across the Central Coast and Sydney region, working with over 1,000 active host employers.
Our Work Placement program serves as the vital link between education and industry, enabling Year 10, Year 11 and 12 students to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings. The program spans diverse sectors, including business services, construction, electro-technology, entertainment, automotive, IT, and various other industries, providing students with meaningful exposure to their chosen industries.
The impact of our program extends beyond traditional work experience, with many students securing part time or casual employment and offers of apprenticeships following their placements due to their exceptional performance. This success stems from our team’s dedication to building strong relationships with both educational institutions and industry partners, creating a robust network that benefits all stakeholders.
A highlight of 2024 was our annual Vocational Education and Training Awards, hosted at the Entertainment Grounds in West Gosford. The event brought together more than 100 attendees including students, teachers, employers, and industry representatives to celebrate the achievements of our young participants. Our Skilled Creative team enhanced the celebration with professional live streaming and audio-visual support.
Our work placement team deserves special recognition for their outstanding efforts in coordinating thousands of placements throughout the year. Their ability to build strong relationships with schools and employers has set new standards for collaboration in vocational education. Through strategic partnership-building and active stakeholder engagement, they continue to strengthen our program’s foundation and impact. We have received reports of numerous young people in 2024 securing employment following their work placements. We are incredibly proud that this program provides a pathway for young people into casual, and even full-time, employment after school, or a pathway to further education and training.
The Work Placement Coordination Program is funded by the NSW Department of Education, Catholic Schools NSW and the Association of Independent Schools of NSW.
Stakeholder Impact and Feedback 2024
Through our annual comprehensive survey of students and employers, we gather valuable insights that help us continuously improve our program and measure its impact.
Employer Perspectives
- Professional conduct and reliability
- Quick learning and adaptability
- Work ethic and enthusiasm
Student Growth and Development
- Practical skill acquisition in industry-specific tools and techniques
- Development of soft skills including communication and adaptability
- Exposure to real workplace environments and professional networks
Voices from the Field – Direct Testimonials
Employer Voices
Student Experiences
These testimonials reflect the transformative impact of our program, creating meaningful connections that often lead to employment opportunities while providing students with invaluable industry experience.
4,000+
Student work placements coordinated across the Central Coast and Sydney
1,000+
Active host employers
VET Awards
The 2024 Vocational Education and Training (VET) Awards, hosted by TSE, shone a spotlight on outstanding students and exemplary host employers across Sydney and the Central Coast. This annual event celebrates the achievements of high school students and recognises the significant contributions of employers to the Work Placement Program, highlighting their role in shaping the future workforce.
“Vocational Education and Training is a cornerstone of building the future workforce, equipping young people with skills across diverse industries such as hospitality, construction, entertainment, and more. Funded by the NSW Department of Education, The Skill Engineer Ltd. plays a critical role in coordinating VET placements across the Central Coast and Sydney.” – Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch MP
Charlotte Dickie, Operations Manager of The Skill Engineer Ltd., echoed this sentiment, describing VET as a win-win for students and employers alike. “Lending expertise to youth as they explore opportunities in their chosen industries is no small task, but the rewards are immense. Employers gain an extra set of hands while shaping the future workforce, and students get invaluable real-world experience.”
Charlotte also highlighted the importance of recognising excellence in VET. “Vocational education is a vital part of schooling, and it’s just as important to celebrate those who excel.”
The 2024 Vocational Education and Training Awards were enriched by inspiring guests and performers, including Wiradjuri musician Matty J Lennard from Gorokan High School, Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch MP, and Jacob Smeaton, a Kerrupjmara leader from Barang Regional Alliance. Matt Grant, Chairperson of The Skill Engineer Ltd., shared insights on fostering industry connections, while mental health advocates and event MCs Jayden Delbridge and Anannya Bandaru brought passion and energy to the evening. The event also featured live entertainment by 17-year-old alternative indie rock artist Kalen Hogan, whose music captivated the audience.
The VET Awards are a testament to the power of partnerships between students, schools, and host employers in fostering a skilled and capable workforce. A full list of recipients and further details about the awards can be found here.
Vocational Education and Training is a cornerstone of building the future workforce, equipping young people with skills across diverse industries such as hospitality, construction, entertainment, and more.
Skilled Creative
In 2024, Skilled Creative expanded its reach, empowering thousands of young people aged 12 to 24 through creative media production and mentoring. Our inclusive programs provided participants with the tools to navigate creative pathways, exploring music production, sound design, DJing, rapping, beat making, podcasting, filmmaking, stage production, and photography.
With access to modern equipment and TSE’s multimedia broadcasting van in a safe and inclusive environment, participants honed their skills and showcased their talents at the TSE-led festival SoundSoul, as well as at shire events, school functions, and iconic celebrations such as NAIDOC Day and Harmony Day on the Central Coast. MobPod for First Nations youth, Creative Beat Masters for aspiring electronic musicians, and SoundSoul for aspiring lyricists are just three of our outstanding programs.
But that’s not all, our weekly podcasting studio for VET Entertainment students supported creative expression and practical learning, while our fee-for-service work with local councils, Back Track, the Department of Education, South West Connect and the Central Coast Community Council offered hands-on work experience for youth as well as strengthening our connection with local community.
Our Model of Impact
We provide meaningful creative media production and mentoring to young people facing barriers to training and employment with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
We co-design programs with youth to ensure they better meet young people’s needs and aspirations.
At Skilled Creative, we don’t just facilitate creative projects – we provide young people with meaningful training and opportunities to lead and design our workshops – doubling the impact.
Our unique model puts young people in the driver’s seat, empowering them to take the lead in upskilling and shaping creative industries across all areas including music production, sound design, DJing, rapping, beat making, podcasting, filmmaking, stage production, and photography. We collaborate with community organisations and participants to amplify this impact, ensuring young people are at the heart of meaningful and transformative workshops and events.
These young people – our participants – are at the centre of everything we do. We train, mentor, and coach them as they take the lead, leveraging their skills and lived experiences to create impactful content and drive innovation as the next generation of creative artists and creators.
This is achieved through our bespoke co-design approach, built on expertise. We utilise community spaces, forums, our mobile Digi Van and youth centers to engage with youth to share input into our project.
Testimonials
Our Initiatives
Partnerships Overview
READ HERE
Skilled Creative collaborates with key partners to provide young people with access to education, employment pathways, and creative opportunities. These partnerships strengthen program delivery, ensure accessibility, and enhance the support available to youth facing barriers such as homelessness, disengagement, and mental health challenges.
Key Partnership Contributions
- Uniting – Northlakes Neighbourhood Centre: Provides case management, mental health services, and housing assistance to youth, creating pathways to education and employment.
- Central Coast Youth Services: Offers counselling, housing support, and personal development programs to help young people overcome challenges.
- The Y NSW Central Coast: Engages youth in mentoring, leadership development, and recreational activities, fostering social inclusion and life skills.
- Central Coast Council: Supports education, employment, and community engagement initiatives, working with local organisations and schools to promote leadership and skills development.
- The Epicentre: Provides a community hub with education, employment, and personal development programs, including counselling and housing assistance.
- South West Connect: Empowers young people in South West Sydney with resilience and life skills to navigate education and employment opportunities.
- Song Lab: Integrates music technology into schools and communities, encouraging creative expression.
- Schools: Partnerships with over 20 high schools ensure students have access to structured programs, work placements, and hands-on creative learning opportunities.
- Volunteers: Organisations like Lovebites, The Y Street Gym, and Slam Factory contribute their time and expertise, enriching program experiences for young people.
Acknowledgement of Skilled Creative Funders
Through these collaborations, The Skill Engineer Ltd. ensures its programs are widely accessible, equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and support networks needed for future success.
Skilled Creative is proudly supported by:
- The NSW Government Regional Youth Holiday Program
- The Regional Youth Investment Program (NSW Government)
- The Youth Opportunities program (NSW Government)
- The NSW Department of Education
Their generous funding enables us to provide transformative opportunities for young people, fostering creativity, education, and career pathways across the region.
Our Year In Numbers
Over the past year, Skilled Creative has significantly expanded its reach, empowering young people through creative industries, skills development, and meaningful engagement.
213
entertainment work placement students gained hands-on industry experience across the Central Coast and Western Sydney.
664
youth actively participated in the planning, design, and delivery of the SoundSoul project.
90%
of youth reported feeling valued and respected, strengthening their commitment to community and support networks.
90
youth engaged in co-creation workshops, forming the Youth Advisory Group.
520
young people attended two SoundSoul music festivals, celebrating youth creativity.
26
new podcasts and music works were created by youth participants.
14
fee-for-service media creation projects were completed, providing real-world creative industry experience.
42
young volunteers contributed to event production, performance, photography, and social media marketing.
24
youth developed their music skills through SoundSoul music-making workshops.
82%
of surveyed participants reported a boost in happiness from participating in our programs.
80
of participants felt their confidence significantly increased after completing the program.
16
participants successfully completed TSE’s Creative Beat Masters, enhancing their skills and career pathways.
Girls of Steel
The 2024 Girls of Steel program empowered women aged 17 and over to launch careers in engineering trades, providing them with a Certificate II in Engineering and hands-on experience creating sculptures, park furniture, trailers, signposts, and letterboxes.
Delivered at the campus in Kariong, NSW, the program provided flexible course hours to accommodate participants of all ages.
Women gained practical skills through a project-based curriculum underpinned by a Certificate II in Engineering, working on projects such as park furniture, sculptures, trailers, signposts, and letterboxes.
Girls of Steel aimed to foster gender diversity by supporting women in non-traditional roles within the engineering sector, creating pathways for a smooth transition into the workforce. The program was made possible with support from the Workforce Australia Local Jobs Local Recovery Fund in collaboration with project partners WISE Employment and Global Skills.
Case Study
READ HERE
Annalise Van Donk, a recent graduate of The Skill Engineer Ltd.’s Girls of Steel program, has successfully secured a Machinery Fitter Apprenticeship with UGL Engineering.
Annalise achieved this impressive achievement after excelling in the program, completing both the theoretical and practical components in just 12 weeks.
Annalise, driven by her ambition to gain an apprenticeship, completed the Girls of Steel program ahead of schedule with outstanding results. The program integrates training with job skills, aiming for employment upon completion.
It includes a Certificate II in Engineering and involves hands-on projects such as manufacturing park furniture, sculptures, trailers, signposts, and bespoke items.
The Skill Engineer Ltd. offers hands-on practical work in its workshop in Kariong, while InTech Institute of Technology, the Registered Training Organisation (RTO), provides the theoretical component and access to the Online Learning Portal for the knowledge components.
“I learned and reinforced theory through practical work,” Annalise said. “I started with simple projects like a phone holder and a fire pit, then moved on to creating a Batman boomerang and a coffee table.”
She added, “Welding is great fun – playing with fire is always exciting! I enjoy working with power tools and building my confidence. The course offers freedom to design what you want and is incredibly supportive, especially for women with diverse skills. As someone with a disability, I’ve found the environment to be fantastic.”
Annalise praised her new employer for their support throughout the application process and expressed confidence in their ongoing support as she completes her apprenticeship while working with UGL Engineering.
The Girls of Steel program is designed to address gender-based disparities in traditionally male-dominated trades. According to a recent Engineers Australia report, women face significant disadvantages in the workplace, with 55% of female engineers reporting fewer professional opportunities than their male counterparts.
Despite three-quarters of female engineers feeling they could “be themselves” at work, one in three indicated they felt pressured to conform to male norms. Additionally, about 20% reported experiencing workplace bullying or exclusion.
The Girls of Steel program, which receives referrals from its partnering provider Wise Employment Ltd. and is supported by the Workforce Australia Local Jobs Local Recovery Fund, aims to dismantle barriers and empower women to succeed in non-traditional trades.
The course offers freedom to design what you want and is incredibly supportive, especially for women with diverse skills.
Connecting Cultural Pathways
Nyanga Walang
The Connecting Cultural Pathways ‘Nyanga Walang’ program – meaning “To give and to learn” – provides First Nations youth with opportunities to build confidence, develop skills, and deepen their sense of identity through cultural activities and self-exploration.
Program Impact
Our team delivers support to First Nations youth aged 12-18, focusing on essential elements of cultural identity and personal growth. Through cultural immersion experiences, students engage in traditional practices including artifact making, language learning, painting, dance, and family history exploration. The program creates a safe space where students can discover their roots and build pride in their heritage.
The impact has been significant, as evidenced by a school partner’s testimony:
“The girls are really enjoying the program, and we’re already seeing positive changes in their attitudes and behaviours. Some students are arriving early to school just to be part of this sacred time… They’re more grounded, following school rules, and eager to learn.”
Measurable Success
Our program’s effectiveness is reflected in multiple outcomes:
- Increased school attendance and engagement
- Strengthened connections to cultural identity
- Improved behavioral outcomes
- Enhanced community participation
- Growing family involvement
In 2024, Nyanga Walang held nearly 540 sessions, connecting with 87 students. From slow beginnings, until we were endorsed by the local AECG (Aboriginal Educational Consultative Group), we became busier. We engaged with Yr7 – Yr12 First Nations students in Public, Independent, Catholic and Christian schools.
Student Reflections
Staff Observations
- “This was a great opportunity for the students to spend time together, connecting and yarning with each other, building trust and strengthening their connections.”
- “Students were encouraged to have more conversations with their families about their identity.”
- “Some students were initially unsure about their heritage. The program gave them the confidence to ask difficult questions of their family members, helping them uncover their ancestry. With support, they explored what their heritage means to them, strengthening their sense of identity.”
- “It was inspiring to see the students connecting as a group through culture, sharing where they were from, and learning about their totems.”
- “This was reflected in the artwork they created. The program fostered respect among students and provided a platform for leadership. One student, in particular, demonstrated her passion for culture and art, guiding others through the creative process.”
Strategic Approach
The program’s success is measured through carefully structured outcomes:
- Short-term – Enhanced educational engagement and participation in cultural activities
- Medium-term – Successful completion of Year 12 or equivalent qualification
- Long-term – Meaningful economic, social, cultural, and civic inclusion
Looking Forward
As we continue this vital program, our focus remains on fostering cultural pride, educational engagement, and community connections. Our wonderful program manager Alison, alongside our cultural advisors, continue to create experiences that connect students to Country and culture.
A school partner beautifully captures our impact: “We couldn’t be prouder of the growth our students are showing – connecting to culture and themselves. Thank you to our team Alison and Hayley, and our special cultural advisors who support our on country experiences.”
The Connecting Cultural Pathways program, proudly funded by the Australian Government, continues to support young First Nations people in their journey of cultural connection and educational success.
87
First Nations Students engaged in the program
15
Schools across four terms
E-Cruiser Program
Roots and Brews and Engineering Eves
READ HERE
Over the past 12 months, The Skill Engineer Ltd. (TSE) has made an extraordinary impact in the West Kimberley, engaging youth, the community, local industries, and organisations in transformative ways. What began as a federal government-funded initiative to address post-COVID challenges, youth re-engagement, and community safety, has blossomed into a highly sought after and effective suite of programs including our E-Cruiser Program – Roots and Brews and Engineering Eves.
We provide vocational opportunities and mentoring to youth facing challenges such as substance abuse, juvenile justice involvement, homelessness, and school disengagement, with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
Through hands-on projects in a fully equipped engineering workshop, participants gain practical skills like welding and basic mathematics while building items such as electric scooters and metal sculptures. These activities inspire purpose and open pathways to employment, training, and entrepreneurship.
Key partnerships with community organisations enhance the program’s impact. TAFE’s Jobs and Skills Centre supports resume building, local police provide road safety training, and allied health professionals deliver workshops on self-care, nutrition, and substance abuse prevention.
Early successes include reduced youth crime, improved school attendance, and higher retention in education and training pathways.
By addressing these key areas, TSE’s e-scooter program contributes directly to achieving Closing the Gap targets and building a safer, more connected community. This year’s achievements highlight the potential for sustained, long-term benefits.
Our Model Of Impact
We provide vocational opportunities and mentoring that build life and vocational skills, connect youth with mentors and support, and offer a safe, inclusive space to learn and thrive.
We deliver programs for youth that foster successful engagement in economic, social, and civic life, promoting a sense of purpose and inclusion.
Although 2024 brought many successes, some standout achievements include youth who have successfully maintained employment after the e-scooter program. These individuals were supported by TSE in transitioning into new employment and training opportunities.
Testimonials
Partners
Partners played a key role in supporting youth providing essential resources, referrals, industry links and guidance. We have wonderful support across the community.
Our valued partners include Broome Youth and Families Hub, North Regional TAFE, the Department of Education, Kullarri Transition to Work Program, Youth Justice Services, Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services, WA Country Health Services, headspace, Boab Health, and referral partners such as Target 120, Job Pathways, Nirrumbuk, and the Young and Deadly Program. We also collaborate with local industry partners, including Broome International Airport, Kimberley Coffee, Broome Port Authority, Red Sunset Camels, Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, and Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, as well as community organisations and training providers like Vocational Training Services, STEPS Group, Kimberley Personnel, and WA Broome Police. Our efforts are made possible through the support of funding partners such as the Kimberley Development Commission, Gro Foundation, Horizon Power, Shell Prelude, and the Department of Social Services. Together, these partnerships enable us to deliver impactful programs and opportunities for youth in our community.
Metal Maker and Metals Unlocked
READ HERE
The Metal Maker and Metals Unlocked programs were transformative 5-week initiatives designed to empower high school students by introducing them to the world of metal manufacturing through hands-on welding and grinding techniques.
Over two school terms, we conducted 10 workshops across New South Wales, inviting 30 high school students from the Central Coast to spend one day a week in the engineering workshop. These sessions provided students with the opportunity to craft their own metal phone holders while gaining valuable insights into the fundamentals of metal engineering.
The programs specifically targeted high school students with an interest in metal engineering, aiming to inspire and guide them toward high-demand career pathways. These fields include biomedical, aerospace, defense, marine, and the emerging industrial revolution driven by robotics and automation. By focusing on trades experiencing national skill shortages, the programs created clear opportunities for students to transition into jobs in growth industries.
This initiatives were made possible through funding from the Maker Projects – Community STEM Engagement Grants 2022. It was delivered in collaboration with key partners, including the Youth Futures Network – Illawarra Schools Workplace Learning Program Incorporated, Career Links, Youth Express, Connect Northern Rivers, Southern Region Business Enterprise Centre, Mid Coast Connect, Careers Network, and Compact Incorporated.
These programs not only equipped students with practical skills but also helped pave the way for the next generation of skilled professionals in the metal engineering and manufacturing industries.
Participant Testimonials
Youth Sound, Style, Mind
READ HERE
The Youth, Sound, Mind, Style (YSMS) project, launched in June 2024 with funding from the Department of Communities WA Youth Engagement Grants Program, has been an overwhelming success. Designed to support socially and economically disadvantaged youth in the Kullarri region of the West Kimberley, the project addresses a critical gap – a space where young people can improve their image, connect with peers in a relaxed community environment, and access support to enhance their wellbeing and liyan.
A trial barber service at our social enterprise block late last year demonstrated the value of such initiatives. It attracted not only participants but also their younger siblings and even some parents, underscoring the broader community need. Providing haircuts, promoting good hygiene, and creating a safe, youth-centered environment with a coordinator focused on style, sound, and wellbeing proved to be a huge success.
Recognising this success, we officially launched YSMS to deliver haircuts and music to remote communities such as Beagle Bay, Bidyadanga, Ardyaloon, and Djarindjin. In addition to remote outreach, we also included weekly haircuts at our social enterprise block in Broome, as well as at Broome PCYC and Drop-In. The project has been embraced wholeheartedly, reaching over 800 young people during its operation. This unique initiative stands out as the only program of its kind in the region, fostering connection, self-esteem, and liyan among youth while reinforcing the importance of community-centered support.
Providing haircuts and music to youth in remote communities has led to early successes such as enhanced self-esteem, stronger community connections, improved personal hygiene awareness, increased engagement in local activities, and the creation of a positive, safe space for youth to connect and thrive.
By addressing these key areas, the YSMS project contributes to the Closing the Gap target that aims for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to enjoy high levels of social and emotional wellbeing. This year’s achievements highlight the potential for sustained, long-term benefits.
Our Model Of Impact
We provide a mobile service enhancing wellbeing and inclusion by offering music, free haircuts, counselling and community connections.
The project addresses youth disengagement by fostering positive life choices, enhancing self-esteem, building resilience, and connecting young people to education, training, employment, and community engagement.
Innovative Youth Mentorship – Building Confidence Through Skills
Patu Edwards, our YSMS coordinator and recent recipient of Broome Shire’s Local Volunteer Appreciation Award, leverages his deep community connections to support Indigenous youth development. Drawing from personal experience, he combines music teaching with free haircuts to boost confidence and self-esteem among at-risk youth in remote Aboriginal communities.
His holistic approach focuses on personal hygiene, building confidence, creating safe spaces for one-on-one mentoring, and collaborating with local Aboriginal community members. Through these innovative methods, Patu has successfully increased engagement and created new opportunities for Aboriginal youth to thrive.
Throughout the project, the YSMS coordinator mentored and trained eight young people in barbering during community outreach sessions. These youth traveled with Patu to outreach sessions, gaining hands-on experience in barbering, DJing, and communication skills. They also participate in The Skill Engineer Ltd. and Broome Youth & Families Hub e-scooter program, where they continue to receive his mentorship.
Case Study
Unlocked
Empowering Young People Through Vocational Pathways
In 2024, The Skill Engineer Ltd.’s Unlocked program provided critical support to disengaged and marginalised young people aged 12–17, equipping them with vocational skills, confidence, and direction for their future. Funded by Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) 2021-5050 Inclusive Communities, the program ran for ten weeks each school term, with a graduation ceremony at the end of each term to celebrate participants’ achievements.
Throughout the year, Unlocked engaged 40 students in hands-on vocational experiences, industry immersion, and career coaching at our Kariong campus, a social enterprise hub. Participants explored industries including construction, engineering, hospitality, conservation, media, and event management, gaining practical skills through real-world projects. They crafted metalwork, built furniture, prepared meals from harvested produce, engaged in cultural immersion, and produced digital content.
Beyond vocational training, Unlocked prioritised personal growth and community connection. Participants received one-on-one career coaching, developed resumes and interview skills, and accessed employment and training pathways. Support services such as Headspace, Centrelink, and housing assistance were integrated to remove barriers to success.
Participant feedback highlighted the program’s impact:
“Thank you for this term’s program—it has taught me a lot, and I’ve really enjoyed it!” – Isaac
“I had an amazing time and learned so much about how everything works.” – Riley
Unlocked successfully supported 80 young people over two years, ensuring they had the skills, confidence, and networks to reengage with education, pursue training, or enter the workforce. We are proud to have delivered this transformative initiative with the support of the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
Financials
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